Top 5 Best Sewing Machines in India: 2019 Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Be it a beginner, hobbyist or fashion designer, a good sewing machine can improve their skill set and sewing interest. But that doesn’t mean you have to strain your legs with a traditional sewing machine.

With modern technologies, even sewing machines have adapted and evolved so much. Now most of the machines comes with in-built stitches, length adjustments, several foot pressers to make your job even easy.

Investing in a sewing machine can be exciting and daunting as well. It can be hard to understand where to start as the options present in the market are overwhelming. This is reason, we have gathered necessary information at one place – “How to Choose a Sewing Machine”. This buying guide covers all the topics like motor, types of sewing machine and others.

Apart from that, our experts also picked out the best sewing machine present in the market for you. If you don’t have much time, then you can choose any one from the below table as per your requirements.

Usha International Ltd, is a brand that is well-known and almost a household name in India. Over the decades of its commencement, it has been devoted to provide simple, innovative solutions for home appliances. Among their wide range of products, Janome is an innovative concept that has been appraised by many people.

Usha Janome Dream Stitch is a perfect sewing machine for beginners and hobbyists. This is also perfect option for people who to upgrade the sewing machine to electric. The Japanese technology is used ensures high quality and impeccable service.

This product contains 7 in-built stitches and 14 applications that include straight stitch, zig zag stitch, blind hem, zip fixing, rolled hemming, lace fixing, and others. It also has the feature of adjusting the length and width of the stitch. This product has several amazing features that include auto-tripping bobbin system, drop feed for embroidery, automatic needle threading, sewing light and others.

This automatic zig-zag sewing machine is compact in size which makes it easy to fit in your cupboard or closet. The sewing light present in the machine ensures proper visibility even in dimly lit spaces. Janome Dream Stitch is a free arm model which means you can easily stitch quilts and other such crafts. The auto-tripping option ensures the thread is secured properly around the bobbin while sewing.

It has a color coded functional plate and two dials for pattern and stitch length selection. Apart from the machine, manufacturer also includes an instructional manual in the package. The manual helps you understand the steps and other points to select the patterns. 2-year warranty is provided for the machine, in case if there is any fault the concerned representative from Usha International will come to your home and fix it at no extra charge.

Quick Note: Make sure to use only high quality threads for continuous sewing without any hassles.

Things We Liked:

Easy to carry using handle bar

A soft cover is provided to protect the machine from dust built-up

Bobbin winding is very easy when compared to other machines

Easy to change the foot

Free arm and circular stitching

Zig zag and button hole stitching is very easy

2-years warranty

Reverse stitch button option

Built-in sewing light

Things We Didn’t Like:

Not battery operated. Requires continuous electricity supply when in use

Thread breakage while sewing happens sometimes, as it gets stuck in the machine

Required more design for interlocking

Lack of accessories when compared to other brands like Singer Machines

Singer India Limited is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company which has been developing world class products that includes sewing machines and other household appliances. Among their wide range of quality products (suitable for every level), the model 1306 is a perfect sewing machine for starters or beginners. It is also perfect for people who are sewing enthusiast or who have limited budget.

A heavy duty metal frame is used for their product to make it extra durable and it also ensures skip-free sewing. The sewing machine has high pressure foot lifter which provides the capability of stitching multiple layers or bulky fabrics without any hassles. This options makes it easy to quilt and do embroidery.

This machine comes with 6 built-in stitch patterns that include 4 basic, 1 decorative and 1 button hole. The 4 basic stitches are straight, scallop, satin, blind hem and zig zag. With automatic buttonhole feature, you can easily stitch in 4 easy steps. An LED lighting is provided which illuminates the stitching area which lets you sew even in dim lighting.

The dual spool pins for twin needle sewing allows parallel rows of stitching – this option is perfect for hemming way or adding a decorative touch. Threading diagrams are provided on the machine will help to set-up the thread in no time.

This machine has the capability of delivering 750 stitches per minute. The manufacturer provides limited 2-year warranty. In case you find any faults in the machine, you can get to concerned service center to get it fixed without any service charges.

Things We Liked:

Perfect for beginners and sewing enthusiast

Durable, heavy duty internal metal frame

Can stitch even bulky fabrics

Weights just 5.5kgs

Automatic thread cutter

An automatic bobbin winding system

750 stitches per minute

Automatic tension

Darning plate for free motion sewing

6 built-in stitches

Quick and easy threading

Automatic 4 step buttonhole

Things We Didn’t Like:

Dust cover is not provided

Needle breaks sometimes usually while reverse stitching

Sometimes needle breaks are observed while it gets stuck in the machine.

For more than a century, Brother has been known for delivering innovative and customer satisfied sewing products. Surprisingly, even if the products are made up of high quality, the pricing is much reasonable and affordable.

If you are looking for a premium product at affordable budget, then Brother FS101 is the right choice. With this sewing machine, you can do much more than normal sewing projects. It can perform large range of quilting or large sewing projects which is value-packed, highly customizable and versatility.

This sewing machine comes with 100 in-built stitches and 55 alphanumeric stitches that include decorative stitches and buttonhole stitches. The LCD display helps you adjust the stitch length, width and other features like overcast seems, button holes, buttons, free motion sewing and others.

The bright LED light provides appropriate visibility even in dim lighting areas. The top loading bobbin design makes it easy to swap out the thread. The manufacturer provides 1-year warranty for this sewing machine.

If your stitching requirements are just basic and don’t require any in-built features, then LIFA desktop sewing machine is the best choice. This 4-in-1 mini sewing machine can help you start small tailoring hobbies.

This machine comes with foot pedal and adapter which simplifies the sewing process. It comes with pre-threaded so you don’t have to strain your eyes for threading the needle. It has just one basic stitch – chain locking.

The stitch delivered by the machine doesn’t come off easily. This machine comes with 2 speed controls so you can adjust as per your feasibility. Accessories provided this sewing machine are – 4 metal bobbins, 1-foot pedal, 1 needle and 1 needle threader.

Last but not the least product from our list is Qualimate – a brand which is well-versed in providing high quality products at reasonable prices. This sewing machine is quite portable and compact, so you can move it easily from one to another without any hassles.

This machine comes pre-threaded and ready to use so you don’t have to worry about eyes straining. It has only one basic stitch – chain-locking. The sewing durable enough – which ensures that the stitch doesn’t come off easily.

Using the foot presser, you can easily control the machine. It comes with 2 control speed – you can choose any one based on your convenience. In the package, you can get

Things to Look Our While Purchasing a Sewing Machine

Either you are a beginner, craftsman or hobbyist, – “which sewing machine is best for you” – is the common question. Well, the answer depends on your requirements. As it is not a small investment, we first request you to analyze your skill level, budget and requirements. Some cheaper machines can be best if stitching is just a hobby or you do it rarely. However, if you want to improve skill set, take stitching as profession or any other reason that requires regular sewing then remember that they can be a bit expensive (depending on the automation). Once you understand how you intend to use it, the following factors will help you shortlist the options and pick up the right one.

1. What type of sewing machine?

Actually, there are 4 types of sewing machines – Electronic, computerized, over locker, and mechanical. Let’s have a clear idea of these, so that you can analyze which one suits you.

Mechanical Sewing Machine

This basic type of sewing machine is suitable for beginners and hobbyists. They are much affordable than other types. They run manually, powered by a wheel instead of foot pedal. Though these machines are vintage, they are much durable and long lasting. Best suited for basic projects and work on almost all types of materials. However, they don’t have inbuilt stiches like electronic and computerized machines.

Electronic Sewing Machine

When compared to mechanical machines, this type has advanced features like in-built stitching patterns. Usually, they have minimum 7 built-in stitching patterns like blind stitch, smocking, hemming, embroidery, quilting, and auto-tripping function. Some of them even contain automatic thread cutter, automatic tension setting and a dial which controls type and length of the stitch. Unlike mechanical ones, they use a motor to power up the device. This sewing machine is well-suited for a wide range of projects and sewing needs.

Computerized Sewing Machine

Computerized machines are the latest high-end sewing technology machines that can be connected to the internet for handling safely. They’ve come with more customizable options to match with the user tailoring needs and functionalities.

These advanced computerized machines come with an LED, LCD or touch screen display and can even memorize the stitches used and set the tension automatically. They can be programmed to sew complex embroidery patterns and some supports USB port to allow the user to create his/her own designs on the computer and then transfer to the machine. These machines are extremely versatile and efficient.

The major advantage of using this machine is that – it is suitable for small textile industries where garments can be designed effectively and supports all types of fabrics- cotton, silk, wool, polyester etc. Though it comes at expensive rates, then traditional models, technical issues and errors may occur while loading the data into the system.

Over Locker Sewing Machine

Over locker machines are also known as Sergers – mainly used for professional hems and seams, and are more suitable for making garments. These machines come with fewer functions but have extremely fast sewing capacity. In general, the tailors use 2/3 thread over lock stitching patterns. But, these machines use around 4 to 5 threads and multiple needles to create an overcast stitch while trimming away excess fabric. These machines are especially useful for hemming curtains, dresses, bed sheets, etc.

Below is a comparison table which provides information on types of sewing machines and its features…

Feature

Mechanical

Electronic

Computerized

Over lock

Built-in stitches

1-7

7-50

50-200

>20

Home Use

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

USB

No

Yes

Yes

No

Beginners

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Automatic

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

LCD

No

Yes

Yes

No

Motor

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Price

Low

Moderate

High

Low

2. How Many Built-In Stitches You Require?

What exactly you require and what looks exciting – are two different factors. Most of the people regularly use straight stitch and zigzag stitch. These two stitches are basic for any tailor or hobbyist. Everything else depends on how creative you want to be. Some of the other stitching patterns often found in most of the sewing machines include…

Chain stitch

Cross stitch

Chain stitch

Back stitch

Basting stitch

Running stitch

Blind hem stitch

Button hole stitch and others

3. Is it Possible to Adjust the Stitch Length?

Though you use just straight stitch and zigzag, adjusting the length and width will provide more options for creativity. Shortest lengths are perfect for toy designs and – as it ensures tight and small stitches. And longer ones are good for quilting and similar words. By adjusting length and width, you can create lovely embroidery on the fabrics as well.

4. Does it Come with Any Extra Attachments?

Well, who doesn’t like a basket of extra goodies. Below are some of the attachments commonly available in most of the sewing machines.

Automatic Needle Threader: This feature automatically loops the thread into the needle hole using a hook and spring mechanism which prevents strain on the eyes of the user and saves time.

Needle Position Adjustment: This feature is mostly found in high end machines. It allows the user to move the needle to either left or right as per stitching requirements.

Automatic Button holder: Automatic button holders create perfect buttonholes with just turn of a dial without having to adjust or manipulate the fabric.

Adjustable Presser Foot: This feature allows the user to determine how tight the fabric is held as controlled by the presser feet of the machine. An adjustable presser foot comes with a wide range of settings that prevent the fabrics from stretching. It also makes it easy to attach zippers, cords, etc.

Adjustable Speed Control: This feature allows the user to control the speed of sewing as per requirement. It is especially useful while putting together difficult fabrics.

Automatic Thread Cutter: Many machines come with automatic thread cutter feature. The machine automatically cuts the thread with the push of a button and eliminates the little bits of thread around the sewing area.

Knee Lifter: This feature is available only in high end machines. It allows the user to lift the presser foot while the hands are engaged in holding the fabric in place. It helps in sewing sharp corners and curves of fabric.

Top Load Bobbin: Bobbin is a small metal wheel found under the needle plate of a sewing machine. It provides thread for stitching the underside of the fabric. Top load bobbing feature allows the use to drop the bobbin into the top of the sewing machine without feeding.

Bobbin Thread Lift: This feature brings the bobbin thread to the sewing surface so that the user doesn’t have to drag it from under the presser foot.

Needle Down: This feature allows the user to place the needle either in an up or down position as preferred when the machine is not in use. It allows the user to lift up the presser foot when turning the corner on a piece of fabric without creating any gap in the stitch.

5. How Big or Heavy is the Motor?

The bigger the motor is, the heavier it will be. However, a stronger/heavier has the capability of frequent usage and thicker fabrics like denims, leather and upholstery-weight fabric. A sewing machine is made of plastic cannot withstand the capacity of machine that is made up of metal parts. However, if you have to transport the machine frequently even if it is from a closet then it is better to choose the lightweight one.

Usually, sewing machines weight ranges from 7-15 kg depending on the brands, material used, number of accessories, etc. It’s important for an individual to decide whether he/she wants to have lightweight or heavy weighted sewing machine. Most of the customers prefer light weighted sewing machines due to the flexible options and added attachments to make the stitching process easy and comfortable. Besides, it’s quite easy to carry the machine to different places effortlessly.

6. How Much Does it Cost? And What is the Warranty?

Another important factor you need to consider while buying a sewing machine is the price and warranty information. If you’re looking for budget-friendly models, then check out the products mentioned in the article. We mainly focused on bringing you the best stitching machines out there in the market.

You can also go with the advanced models that come with number of accessories at high prices and delivers fantastic results at an ease. Besides, you should confirm about the warranty information with the seller or manufacturer as it minimizes the repairing costs.

7. How Much Noise Does It Make?

This is the last factor usually people look into. But once you purchase the machine, the noise coming from it can make a major difference. Imagine, if you sew in the evening, the noise coming from it can disturb the evening of your kids and other family members. To avoid it, you can test the machine in the store or before the purchase.

Some Frequently Asked Questions?

1. Which sewing machine is suitable for me?

Well, the answer for this question depends on your requirements. Some may be beginners, while some may be experts in fashion designing. So, carefully analyze your present requirements and choose accordingly. For more information, read our “Types of Sewing Machine” section.

When compared to other household appliances, sewing machines do not consume much power. Usually, most of them consume 40 – 70 Watts to run the motor.

4. What accessories are provided with a sewing machine?

Most of the brands include several accessories in the package that include – cleaning brush, screwdriver, eyelet punch, protective case, bobbins, power cord, blind stitch foot, wide table, monogramming foot and others.

5. What are the advantages of using a sewing machine?

Given below are some of the major benefits of using a sewing machine. Have a close look!* Reduces human effort.* Easy to operate and maintain.* Saves your valuable time and money.* You can design the clothes you wish or like.* Reduces stress on backbone while operating with automatic sewing machines.* Comes with plenty of stitching options to support different fabric types like silk, cotton, wool, polyester, denims.

6. Can I use regular sewing machine for quilting?

If your sewing machine has free-motion foot or circular stitching feature then you can use it for quilting. If your machine doesn’t have then you can purchase generic darning foot to quilt.

If you are observing that stitches are randomly skipping then it is time to change the needle. If the stiches are normal now, then the problem was a bent needle. However, if it doesn’t then reasons can be tugging too hard on the fabric, need and thread can be a mismatch or the needle hitting a pin and any other. Take the sewing machine to a service station or get a professional to fix it up.

8. How often should I have my sewing cleaned or serviced?

The answer for this question depends on how often you use it and type of fabrics or work done on the machine. Working on cotton fabrics and threads can buildup lint in the machine. Serving once in few months helps the machine work smoothly. Also if the machine has been stored or not run for some time then servicing is necessary as the lubricants can be dried up.

Few Words Before Wrapping Up…

Be it a beginner, hobbyist or a fashion designer, a sewing machine should have enough features to cater their unique needs. If you are familiar with the information – which sewing machine is best for you then read our buying guide. We have provided all the information required to choose the right one.